Parabolic Spring Center Pin question

[Nanoose]

Hi - on my Series 1 I've got Rocky Mountain Parabolic Springs (that's what the PO said they were and the springs and hardware match the Rocky Mountain web site...)

I recently replaced the tires and afterwards noticed that the lower leaf on the right rear spring was sticking out a few inches. I don't know if it had anything to do with the tire replacement, I think I just happened to look closer to see how the truck was sitting. When I poked around a bit I realized that the center pin was missing on the leaf spring (this is a three leaf set).

The springs themselves are in great shape and don't need to be replaced. My question is if there is anything special about the pin - will a regular bolt do?

Anyone have suggestions on how to replace it. I'm thinking about simply jacking up the vehicle, removing the wheel to take the weight from the spring, removing the rear bolt, lowering the spring, lining up the leaves and replacing the bolt, Then putting it all back together. I have a feeling that there is a lot more to it then this...it's that odd sense of foreboding right after someone says "right, this'll only take a minute". You know that it's going to turn into an all day job...

Does this make sense?

Advice is greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Dave

[siiirhd88]

Spring center pins are a very hard steel and usually have a round section on the stub that inserts into the spring perch on the axle. You moght be able to use a grade 8 bolt and grind the hex round, but the stub would then be very short and might not keep the axle centered on the stub. New center pins are available from truck spring rebuilders for cheap. They are usually too long, and need the threaded end cut to length after installation.

There could be tension on the spring leafs that might make it difficult to align the center hole. I have used a long phillips head screwdriver to help line up the hole and then clamp the leafs with a 'C' clamp or two.

Bob

[Nanoose]

Thanks Bob, just the info that I was looking for!

Dave

[KingSlug]

or maybe just buy one:

http://www.4wheelparts.com/Lift-Kits-Suspensions-Shocks/Trailmaster-Leaf-Spring-Center-Pin.aspx?t_c=1&t_s=399&t_pt=4484&t_pl=9323

http://www.xtremeterrain.com/516leafspringcenteringpinbyruggedridge.aspx

http://www.northridge4x4.com/proddetail.php?prod=RE-1482

Jared

[gudjeon]

Allen head bolt is a good substitute. Has a round head.
http://brijmohanandsons.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/ss_allen_bolt1.47220840_std.jpg

[LR Max]

They are a special kind of fastener, but readily available.

Call up Rocky Mountain and ask them about it. They should be able to help you but I think it is a standard fastener. I had a spring shop replace mine many years ago when I broke it (busted the U-bolts on a rock).

[Nanoose]

I sent Rocky Mountain an e-mail yesterday and they (Jeremy) responded with a really helpful note today indicating a socket head capscrew should work fine and he even included the leaf spring install manual. I'm impressed! Great service.

Dave